What is the name of the three-headed dragon in Slavic folklore?

The three-headed dragon in Slavic folklore is Zmey Gorynych.

Zmey Gorynych is a major dragon-like antagonist in Russian and broader East Slavic heroic tales. His name is commonly interpreted as “serpent son of the mountain,” linking him with a mountainous lair or fiery, subterranean setting. He is usually depicted with wings, multiple heads, and the ability to breathe fire.

Although quiz illustrations often show exactly three heads, folklore is not fully fixed. Some versions give Zmey Gorynych three heads, while others describe him with more—sometimes as many as twelve. The three-headed form is the standard popular answer and distinguishes him from other Slavic monsters such as Chudo-Yudo, a broader multi-headed dragon figure.

Zmey Gorynych frequently appears as an enemy for legendary heroes. In the tale of Dobrynya Nikitich, he is defeated after battles connected with the rescue of Princess Zabava. Modern films, animations, and games have made the character one of the best-known dragons in Slavic folklore.